For the third consecutive year, Coastal Carolina University is included in "America's Best Colleges," compiled by Forbes and the Center for College Affordability and Productivity (CCAP).

According to Forbes, the report ranks 650 colleges-the top 20 percent of 3,250 U.S. undergraduate institutions-that award baccalaureate degrees or four-year certificates, based on data from the U.S. Department of Education. Only institutions categorized by the Carnegie Foundation as doctorate-granting universities, master's colleges and universities, or baccalaureate colleges are included in Forbes' exclusive rankings. CCU is ranked number 597 and is listed as 184 in the South.

"I am proud to see that Coastal Carolina University is once again included in this ranking," said President David A. DeCenzo. "This external recognition of our progress is indicative of the growing excellence of this institution and our commitment to providing a quality education for our students and increasing the value of their degrees."

This is the fourth year that Forbes has ranked colleges and universities. The list is designed as a consumer guide for undergraduate students and considers criteria that students use to select a college. The rankings are based on the following general categories, which are weighted as indicated: student satisfaction (27.5 percent), graduate success (30 percent), student debt (17.5 percent), four-year graduation rate (17.5 percent) and competitive awards to students (7.5 percent).